Kenya will host Group F leaders Gabon at Nyayo National Stadium on Sunday in a pivotal 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier, with both teams aiming to strengthen their positions in the race for a spot at the tournament.
The Harambee Stars come into the encounter following a thrilling 3-3 draw against Gambia in Ivory Coast, a result that showcased their resilience.
Trailing by two goals in the second half, Kenya mounted a dramatic comeback with quick-fire strikes from Michael Olunga and Mohammed Bajaber before William Wilson secured a point with a stoppage-time equaliser.
Despite their fighting spirit, Kenya remains fourth in the group with six points, six behind Gabon and four adrift of second-placed Ivory Coast, who still have a game in hand against Burundi.
Head coach Benni McCarthy, who took charge of his first match against Gambia, remains optimistic about his side’s qualification prospects.
“The character the team showed in the last game was exactly what we need going forward,” McCarthy said. “The group is still open, and we have everything to play for.”
This match will be Kenya’s first competitive home fixture in four years, and with Nyayo National Stadium hosting fans once again, the team will look to use home support as an advantage.
However, their recent record raises concerns, as they are winless in their last seven matches, suffering three defeats and recording four consecutive draws.
Gabon, on the other hand, enter the match with strong momentum, having secured a dominant 3-0 victory over Seychelles.
| Kenya vs Gabon Head-to-Head Statistics | |
|---|---|
| Total Matches Since 2023 | 1 |
| Kenya Wins | 0 |
| Gabon Wins | 1 |
| Draws | 0 |
| Kenya Total Goals | 1 |
| Gabon Total Goals | 2 |
| Kenya Goals Per Game (PPG) | 1.0 |
| Gabon Goals Per Game (PPG) | 2.0 |
| Asian Handicap Win % (Kenya) | 0.0% |
| Asian Handicap Win % (Gabon) | 100.0% |
| Total Goals Over % | 100.0% |
Recent Form (Last 5 Matches)
| Team | Wins | Draws | Losses | Goals per Match | Goals Conceded per Match | Asian Handicap Win % | Total Goals Over % |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kenya | 1 | 3 | 1 | 1.2 | 1.0 | 0.0% | 50.0% |
| Gabon | 1 | 2 | 2 | 1.0 | 1.0 | 33.3% | 33.3% |
That win propelled the Panthers to the top of Group F with 12 points from five matches, two ahead of Ivory Coast.
Under the guidance of head coach Thierry Mouyouma, Gabon have been one of the most efficient attacking sides in the qualifiers, scoring 10 goals while conceding five.
They have found the net at least twice in four of their five matches, with their only defeat coming in a narrow 1-0 loss to Ivory Coast.
Gabon also hold the psychological edge, having beaten Kenya 2-1 in the reverse fixture—their only previous competitive meeting.
Given Kenya’s defensive vulnerabilities, which have seen them concede six goals in five matches, the visitors will look to capitalise on any weaknesses at the back.
With both teams showing attacking prowess but also defensive frailties, an open and high-intensity encounter is expected.
Kenya will need to produce a strong display to keep their World Cup dream alive.
